A year ago today I started a new job in a new industry. While the position responsibilities are somewhat the same as my previous job, learning the new responsibilities, new industry, and making work friends at a new company during the world shutdown has been super challenging.
Most of the time I've felt like a chicken with my head cut off just running around trying to do unfinished projects, and maintain the program left by the person I replaced. While there were definitely some serious learning curves, I am actually relatively proud of how I did this year. Looking back, I realize that I've accomplished a lot especially considering the fact that I don't have the benefit of being around people in office and learning by osmosis. That said, I feel like my ability to learn the industry and get to know my coworkers has been stunted.
Anyone else out there in their first year at a new job? How has it been for you? Do you feel the same way? Is there anything that you've done that has been successful or unsuccessful in helping you learn the ropes and getting to know people?
2 Comments
2 Comments
Kari Solomon
66
Resume Writing | LinkedIn | Job Search Coaching
11/11/20 at 6PM UTC
You may have thought of this, but you could still take your colleagues out for coffee. The pandemic has really shined a light on how important face-to-face interactions we rarely thought about are so important. Even though it takes more work, I would still recommend asking your colleague out for coffee (even if your both in your own living rooms). Reach out to people in your new organization and ask them for 20 minutes of their time to introduce yourself and touch base. During your virtual call you can ask them about their role, how they got to where they are, and is there anything you can do to improve how your two departments interact.
These types of interactions used to happen more organically. Now they require more forethought.
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Diannah r
26
Positive reinforcement based trainer and mentor
11/11/20 at 7:11PM UTC
I haven't started a new job, but we did create an entirely new offering... We found that having non-mandatory weekly zoom meetings available after hours to just chat, share experiences, etc. has been incredibly valuable for team building and general overall feel.
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